Ghost’s chest was warm under your cheek as you lay across him. The two of you enjoyed peaceful silence, his fingers weaving through your hair, soothing and delicate.

Out of nowhere, you let your hands dart to his sides and tickle him. A gruff chuckle escaped his lips, but it wasn’t the reaction you wanted. He wasn’t ticklish, not even close. He stared at you, amused yet unimpressed, as you tried to make him squirm beneath you.

With a dramatic roll of his eyes, he grabbed your wrists and flipped you onto your back. You laughed and wriggled under his weight, trying to free yourself from his grip. But no matter how hard you fought or how much strength you used, he overpowered you effortlessly.

An unexpected wave of fear washed over you as you realized how utterly helpless you would've been if this was someone else. You knew Simon would never hurt you, but realizing how much stronger he was and how genuinely powerless you were in that moment shifted something in you.

He must have seen it in your eyes because his face dropped instantly. Freeing your wrists, he cupped your face in his calloused hands, his concern clear as he leaned back.

“Are you okay, sweetheart? Did I do something wrong?” His voice was soft, laced with worry, and his thumbs gently brushed your cheeks. The thought of hurting or scaring you was his worst fear come to life.

You shook your head quickly, leaning into his touch. “I’m okay. It’s not you, I promise,” you whispered, your voice steadying as you took a deep breath. “It's just scary. How much stronger you are, you know?”

His gaze stayed on yours, softening at your explanation. You could still see the strain in his shoulders as you let him ground you with soft kisses across your face.

He would never let anyone hurt you.